Washington State Council Fly Tying Hall of Fame Award
Detailed Description:
The Washington State Council Fly Tying Hall of Fame Award is presented to a WSCFFI member who has made significant and lasting contributionsto the art and craft of fly tying. This award honors individuals whose work—whether as amateurs driven by passion or professionals pursuing excellence—demonstrates exceptional skill, creativity, and a commitment to teaching and sharing knowledge. Recognizing that the art of fly tying evolves through both innovation and tradition, this award seeks to celebrate those whose influence extendsbeyond their personal tying bench—through education, mentorship, and outreach that elevate the fly tying community regionally and beyond. Contributions may take the formof hands-on instruction, published works, original patterns, or other avenues that advance the craft.
Award Criteria:
- Membership Requirement: The nominee must be an active member of the Washington State Council of Fly Fishers International(WSCFFI).
- Amateur or Professional Eligibility: Both amateurs and professionals are eligible. In evaluating professional fly tyers, the committee should assess the intent and impact of their work—especially when their efforts clearly prioritize education, inspiration, and community engagement over commercial gain.
- Judging Categories: Nominations will be evaluated based on:
o Tying Skill: Mastery of traditional or modern fly-tying techniques.
o Creativity and Innovation: Original designs, new techniques, or fresh approaches that push the boundaries of the craft.
o Knowledge Sharing: Contributions to education through teaching, mentoring, workshops, videos, publications, or otherresources.
- Scope of Impact: Contributions may be at the local, regional, or broader level. National recognition is not required but may enhanceconsideration.
- Support of FFI Values: While formal participation in FFI beyond WSCFFI is not mandatory, activities that benefit the larger FFIcommunity and align with its mission will be regarded positively.
- Superior Qualifications: The recipient’s achievements and influence must be clearly outstanding and distinguishable whencompared to other candidates.
Checklist for Evaluation:
- Skill and Craftsmanship: Does the nominee demonstrate superior technical ability and attention to detail in fly tying?
- Creativity and Innovation: Has the nominee introduced new patterns, techniques, or materials that have contributed to the evolution ofthe art?
- Education and Outreach: Has the nominee made significant efforts to share their knowledge through teaching, presentations, publishedcontent, or mentoring?
- Community Impact: Has the nominee positively influenced the fly-tying community at a local or regional level?
- Alignment with FFI and WSCFFI Values: Does the nominee’s work support the broader mission of preserving and advancing the art offly tying within the FFI framework?
Nominations for the Fly-Tying Hall of Fame will be reviewed by the Awards Chair and evaluated by the Council director in charge of the fly-tying group. They will make recommendations to the full Awards Committee for final selection and BoD approval.
